After a modest start in 1976 we felt strong enough to organise - since
1980 - a yearly Vegetarian WorldDay. Under the good leadership of our
President Jan Dries, who is an excellent organiser, we opted for the formula
of a colloquium. Every year we choose a different topic. During the morning
session, the public (members & visitors) is listening to 3 lectures, followed
by question time.

1980: "Vegetarian for Love of Animals"

1981: "Living Food" Kristina Nolfi, at 100 years.

1982: "Vegetarianism and Peace"

1983: "Food for all"

1984: "Vegetarianism and Tolerance"

1985: "Herbs" Commemoration of Flemish botanist Dodonaeus (1585).

1986: "Man and Nature"

1987: EVU Congress Ostend: "Friendship among all Vegetarians"

1988: "Vegetarianism and Stress"

1989: "Vegetarianism and Allergies"

1990: "Vegetarianism and Environment"

1991: "Health in our own Hands"

1992: "Vegetarianism and Rheumatism"

1993: "Vegetarianism: a Nutrition Trend"

1994: "Vegetarianism and Cancer"

1995: "Vegetarianism = Health, Environment and Animal friendly"

1996: ?

In the afternoon, there are workshops and simultaneous activities to choose
from like:

A great attraction is the exhibition hall, with its many stands and booths
with brochures, books, produce from 3rd world farmers, tropical fruit, non-leather-shoes
... You-name-it-they-have-it.

People are so eager to learn about vegetarianism!

Diane Hebbelinck is active in the Vegetarian
Association Belgium, Marcel
Hebbelinck
(Prof. at the University of Brüssels) is former
Deputy President of IVU and together with
his wife auditor in EVU.

In order not to become too predictable for 'regulars' we always have a different
surprise element like a lottery, a special guest reciting appropriate poetry,
a musical performance, a nature quiz, a homage of Senior V. members, 5 o'clock
herbal tea ...

In order to permit young parents to participate, we arrange for volunteers
to play with the children.

We usually rent a part of a 'Cultural Centre' and make arrangements
with the restaurant owners for a festive meal for up to 400 people: quite
a sight in the large dining hall!

The last few years this traditional World Vegetarian Day has become
famous and TV-cameramen drop in for interviews.

We have come a long way with our initially small group, but certainly
it is rewarding!